Philadelphia sports doctor Gary Dorshimer dies at 71

Dr. Gary Dorshimer, a longtime physician for Philadelphia’s professional sports teams and Penn Medicine, died on November 14 at age 71. He served as medical director for the Flyers and also worked with the Sixers, Eagles and Philadelphia Union.

Dorshimer was the Eagles’ head internist for nearly 20 years. He was the Sixers’ assistant primary care sports medicine physician and the Union’s team sports medicine physician. The Flyers said he had cared for players, families, coaches and staff for decades and was available whenever the team needed him.

Flyers governor Dan Hilferty remembered Dorshimer’s humor and the care he gave athletes and patients. The Sixers called him a valued part of their athlete-care group and the Penn Medicine community. The Eagles also expressed condolences to his family and friends.

Dorshimer completed medical training at Penn’s medical school and held leadership roles at Pennsylvania Hospital and Penn Personalized Care. His Penn Medicine biography said he was recognized in Philadelphia Magazine’s annual Top Docs issue from 2010 through 2025. His survivors include wife Deborah and son Geoffrey.